Cape traffic police brutality probe

AUTHORITIES are investigating a case of brutality against traffic police officers who dragged a motorist from his car and had him locked up in a police cell.

Analytical lab assistant Bashiera Allie posted video footage of the incident, which occurred on Monday in Mountview, on Facebook and it went viral.

In a second video the motorist, 51, explains what happened when he was visited in a police cell.

The Voice of the Cape reported that Zainodien Allie had gone to assist his uncle who was being questioned by traffic police for allegedly using his phone while driving.

Allie was accused of interfering and ordered out of his car by traffic police, who tried to remove the key. What happened next was captured on video.

Zaahira Allie said her father was injured and then locked up in a police cell. Charges against him were dropped when he appeared in court the next day.

Cape Town mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith‚ said yesterday an allegation of police brutality was under investigation.

“The City takes these allegations very seriously and the matter is receiving urgent attention‚ including a full investigation to determine what happened.

“The overall conduct of the officers in terms of their behaviour at the scene‚ professionalism‚ and compliance with the law will have to be determined. We will also have to get their side of the story.”

Witnesses were asked to come forward to help with the investigation.

“This investigation will be completed in addition to whatever criminal investigation the SAPS is conducting into the matter‚” Smith said.